Many Canberrans will be rightfully angry and disappointed with the announcements made by the Chief Minister today that failed to offer any clear path forward for our community.

Canberra Liberals Leader Elizabeth Lee said it is unacceptable that whilst announcing a four week extension to lockdown, there are very few changes to restrictions and financial support that will leave many businesses devastated for the foreseeable future.

“This is yet another blow; another slap in the face for small businesses who have been absolutely forgotten by this ACT Labor-Greens government,” said Ms Lee.

“Thousands of Canberra businesses are yet to receive a cent from the ACT government and over four weeks into a lockdown, this is beyond unacceptable; it is cruel.

“The Chief Minister has been spruiking for weeks now that today he would provide a roadmap and plan for a safe transition out of lockdown but all he offered was a four week extension with little regard for Canberrans doing it tough.

“Whilst we respect the health advice keeping Canberrans safe, it is very clear that the Labor-Greens Government has turned their back on businesses in the ACT.

“Canberrans are out of jobs, families are struggling to put food on the table; and we are hearing from Canberrans who are on the brink of seeing their lifetime of work going down the drain. They are crying out for some support; they are pleading for some certainty and a plan for a safe transition out of lockdown.

“The Canberra Liberals have real and urgent concerns about the mental health of the business owners that are on the brink of losing everything. These are Canberrans who have given so much to our economy and to our community and this government is leaving them behind.

“Parents and teachers are also no closer to seeing any certainty and long-term plan for the vast majority of our students returning to the classroom.

“The Chief Minister must be upfront with our community and provide some light at the end of the tunnel for our businesses; our parents and teachers; all Canberrans who deserve to know what a safe transition out of lockdown will look like,” Ms Lee concluded.